12/08/2026
UNITED, SCIENCE‑DRIVEN RESPONSE: NEGROS OCCIDENTAL RISES TO OVERCOME RSSI CRISIS
NEGROS OCCIDENTAL — Through steady leadership of Governor Eugenio “Bong” Lacson and Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II, the province has declared a State of Calamity, unlocking emergency resources to mount a decisive, compassionate, and science‑backed campaign against the Red‑Striped Soft Scale Insect (RSSI) that has affected over 14,400 hectares of sugarcane.
Instead of quick fixes, the province chose a sustainable path: deploying Metarhizium, a natural biological fungus that targets the pest without harming the land or communities. Ground teams have already treated wide areas in Bago City, La Carlota City, and Murcia, with operations set to reach Ilog, Hinigaran, and Manapla next.
Executive Order No. 26‑12 sets a unified standard for assessment, data gathering, and distribution — ensuring every action is guided by facts, not politics.
A Provincial Biosecurity Task Force coordinates closely with the Sugar Regulatory Administration, Department of Agriculture, and barangay leaders to map infestations with precision, backed by drone technology and hands‑on training for local teams. Financial support is also flowing: the DA is being tapped for ₱10 million in operational funds, while DSWD has begun releasing direct aid to over 6,200 farmers and workers to help keep livelihoods stable.
“Every measure we take is rooted in care for our farmers, respect for our land, and faith in our collective strength,” Governor Lacson emphasized.
“This challenge unites us — not as separate towns, but as one Negrense family working together to protect our heritage and build back stronger.”